lou's library

I’m guilty of reading a book by an author I’ve never heard of, absolutely loving the book and then never picking up another one by the same writer ever again. I don’t like that I am depriving myself of potential favourite books in this way, so when I spotted The Wren, The Wren at my local library, I immediately knew it was coming home with me. A couple of years ago I read The Green Road by Anne Enright and really enjoyed it, only to then completely forget about that author. Well, that has now changed because I have read The Wren, The Wren and it has solidified my desire to read more of Anne Enright’s books!

The premise of the book is simple: it’s a multi-generational novel set in Ireland and explores the dynamics between different members of the McDaragh family. Phil, a somewhat successful poet but horrible husband, dominates the eldest generation, followed by his daughter Carmel and her daughter Nell. The Wren, The Wren doesn’t have much plot, but all the vibes. That being said, the explorations of multigenerational trauma and moments that shape us as humans was totally enough for me to not mind the lack of action. This is not the kind of novel you pick up for its eventful plot.

There are poems (some by Phil) throughout this book, which I think was a great idea because it fit in with the generally poetic writing style so well, and because poetry plays such a pivotal role in the story. There are poems that have deeply impacted some of the characters in the story, and to get to read some of them really helped me understand their significance. This is the kind of novel you pick up for its stunning use of language and the images it paints in your mind.

The tone is somber, for the most part, a bit devoid of colour, but interspersed with great emotions and the occasional glimpse of joy. It’s a quiet book, but it also packs a punch. It’s unmistakably Irish, not just because of its Irish characters, but because questions arise when they leave their home and are thrown into the unfamiliar. But also because of societal restraints that are shown throughout parts of this book that are deeply tied to Irish culture of the time.

Personally, I would have liked for the book to have been a bit longer (it’s around 275 pages long), because I wanted to get to know the characters even better. Particularly Nell, the youngest of the main characters, remained a mystery to me, and while I know that can be part of the point, I feel like a bit more time with her would have helped me understand her struggles better.

That being said, the wisdom Anne Enright has put into this book is astounding. There were so many lines I wanted to underline so much (but couldn’t because it’s a library book), that genuinely made me stop and ponder the meaning of what I’d just read. I also think she captured family dynamics incredibly well, as well as growing up in the 21st century. It’s crystal clear that she’s a great writer and you best believe I’ll be going back to the library to see if they have more books by her. If you’re into books where a whole lot is going on beneath the surface, then The Wren, The Wren is for you!